HOW AIRBNB WORKS... AND HOW SCAMMERS EXPLOIT IT
Homeowners who are away or who have a holiday home, register on Airbnb to let out all or some of their property for a few days at a time.
‘Hosts’ post details, pictures and the nightly price. ‘Guests’ create a profile to book. Airbnb takes a fee from both parties.
Airbnb doesn’t check property ownership so scammers rent from a landlord then sub-let on Airbnb, posing as the owner.
Scammers turn a blind eye to parties, prostitution and drugs in the property. The owner finds out only when neighbours complain.